Lack of funds not behind African Athletics Championship challenges - MoF source

A source at the Ministry of Finance has told GhanaWeb that funds have already been released for the organisation of the ongoing African Athletics Championship, insisting that the current challenges at the competition cannot be blamed on a lack of financial support from government.

Speaking on condition of anonymity, the source disclosed that the Finance Ministry had made payments to support the organisation of the championship, with additional releases still ongoing.

“They have released money to them, and more releases are happening as we speak,” the source said.

The clarification comes amid widespread complaints over food shortages and rationing at the event village, where some athletes and officials have reportedly expressed frustration about inadequate meals and poor feeding arrangements.

However, organisers maintain that steps are being taken to resolve the concerns and improve conditions for participants.

There are also growing complaints from journalists covering the championship over the absence of real-time results transmission systems inside the stadium.

Media personnel have said that the lack of monitors displaying live results has made it difficult to file accurate and timely reports during events.

The Finance Ministry source, however, stressed that the operational setbacks should not be attributed to delays in the release of funds, as monies had already been disbursed to the organisers to facilitate preparations and the smooth running of the competition.

The situation has triggered criticism from sections of the sporting public, with many urging organisers to quickly address the logistical shortcomings to safeguard Ghana’s reputation as host of the continental athletics championship.

Watch highlights from Day One of the African Athletics Championship